(DETROIT, Michigan – February 7, 2012) – Detroit Bike City in partnership with local businesses and non-profit organizations is sponsoring the First Annual Bicycle Show and Swap Meet on March 24th, 2012 in the Michigan Hall at Cobo Center.

The day-long event will feature over one hundred of the industry’s top bicycling experts and vendors from throughout the Midwest, offering product demonstrations, technical education, and activities that promote family-appropriate fun for both hard-core enthusiasts and the casual rider. Attendees can check out the latest product lines, find parts and upgrades for their equipment, or relive early riding days at a vintage bike display – all at the same event. Whether an individual is road rider or track cycler, prefers a mountain bike or BMX course, the Bicycle Show and Swap Meet provides something for everyone within an environment that unites the entire community for the display, swap, and sales of individual components or complete units.

Mike MacKool, partner in Detroit Bike City and event sponsor, explains the unique need for the event, “Industry figures show that about 20 million new bikes are sold each year. When you combine that revenue with specialty and aftermarket sales, you’re looking at over five billion dollars generated. As more people in our area start and continue riding, for any number of great reasons, it’s critical that the riding community comes together to establish a sustainable market locally. A market that maximizes buyer purchasing power with the most comprehensive selection, and offers sellers unique, exciting opportunities to connect with potential customers in ways that we have never previously utilized. Ultimately, the entire bicycling community wins, and we believe the Swap Meet is a great first step in achieving this vision.”

Admission to the Bicycle Show and Swap Meet is $8 for adults and free for children under 12 years old. Paid admission entitles attendees to bring small items for trade – i.e. pedals, hubs, etc.; however, no full bicycles or kits will be permitted for sale without vendor status.

Detroit Bike City is a creative organization dedicated to partnering with our customers, community, and environment to promote bicycling in Michigan. Our mission is to encourage participation and help generate sustained interest in riding, while also helping create opportunities that build a local market for all things bicycling…and still maintaining our sense of humor.